Today in history September 16

  1. 1810 – Mexican War of Independence Begins
    On September 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest, issued the “Grito de Dolores,” which marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish rule. Hidalgo called for the Mexican people to rise up and fight for their freedom from colonial oppression. This event is considered the birth of the Mexican nation. The war lasted for over a decade, ending in 1821 with Mexico’s independence recognized. Every year, Mexicans celebrate this day as their Independence Day with festivities and patriotic ceremonies.
  2. 1620 – Pilgrims Set Sail for America
    On this day in 1620, the Pilgrims departed from Plymouth, England, aboard the Mayflower. Their journey was a quest for religious freedom and a new life in the New World. After a treacherous voyage of over two months, they landed at what is now Plymouth, Massachusetts. The Pilgrims established one of the first successful English settlements in North America. This event is often remembered for the Thanksgiving holiday, which celebrates the Pilgrims’ first successful harvest.
  3. 1908 – General Motors Founded
    General Motors, a major American automotive manufacturer, was founded on September 16, 1908, by William C. Durant. The company would grow to become one of the largest car manufacturers in the world. GM played a significant role in the development of the automotive industry and the American economy. It introduced many innovations in car design and manufacturing processes. Today, General Motors remains a key player in the global automotive market.
  4. 1975 – Papua New Guinea Gains Self-Government
    September 16, 1975, marks the date when Papua New Guinea was granted self-government from Australia. This was a major step towards full independence, which the country achieved in 1975. The move allowed Papua New Guinea to establish its own political institutions and governance. It was significant in the decolonization process in the Pacific region. Since then, Papua New Guinea has developed its own unique national identity and government structure.
  5. 1913 – The Great Lakes Storm of 1913 Begins
    A massive storm known as the “Big Blow” or the Great Lakes Storm began on September 16, 1913. It was one of the deadliest and most destructive natural disasters to hit the Great Lakes region of North America. The storm produced hurricane-force winds, massive waves, and blizzard conditions. Over 250 people lost their lives, and numerous ships were sunk or damaged. The event led to improvements in weather forecasting and safety measures for shipping on the lakes.
  6. 1959 – The Soviet Union Launches Luna 2 to the Moon
    On September 16, 1959, the Soviet Union launched Luna 2, the first human-made object to reach the Moon. This spacecraft impacted the lunar surface, marking a major milestone in space exploration. Luna 2’s success demonstrated the feasibility of reaching other celestial bodies. It was part of the intense space race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The mission paved the way for future lunar exploration and scientific study of the Moon.
  7. 1978 – The Camp David Accords Signed
    The Camp David Accords, signed on September 16, 1978, were historic agreements between Egypt and Israel. Facilitated by U.S. President Jimmy Carter at the presidential retreat in Maryland, these accords laid the groundwork for peace between the two nations. Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin agreed to mutual recognition and peaceful relations. This was the first peace agreement between Israel and an Arab country. The accords significantly altered Middle Eastern geopolitics and earned Sadat and Begin the Nobel Peace Prize.
  8. 1920 – First Women’s Rights March in the United States
    On September 16, 1920, women across the United States mobilized to celebrate the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. This historic day marked a major victory for the women’s suffrage movement. Parades, rallies, and gatherings took place nationwide to honor the achievement. It was a culmination of decades of advocacy, protests, and activism by suffragists. The amendment fundamentally changed American democracy by expanding voting rights.
  9. 1940 – The Selective Training and Service Act is Passed in the U.S.
    On September 16, 1940, the United States enacted the Selective Training and Service Act, the country’s first peacetime draft. The law required men between the ages of 21 and 35 to register for the military draft. This was enacted as tensions rose globally leading to World War II. The act aimed to prepare the U.S. military in case of involvement in the conflict. It marked a significant shift in American military policy during a critical period.
  10. 1987 – The First Intifada Begins in the Palestinian Territories
    The First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation, began on December 8, 1987, but tensions and protests escalated notably on September 16, 1987. This grassroots uprising involved widespread demonstrations, civil disobedience, and clashes with Israeli forces. The Intifada drew international attention to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and shifted political dynamics in the region. It lasted several years and led to significant political negotiations. The uprising had profound impacts on the peace process and regional relations.

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